Hudson’s Royal Court Reigns Supreme

March 8, 2025
At The Barbershop Bar
WINDSOR, Ontario

A Night of Royalty and Revelry

Hear ye, hear ye! Windsor’s drag scene gathered for an evening of medieval mischief and birthday cheer as Hudson Bae hosted Hudson’s Royal Court at The Barbershop Bar on March 8th. Guests were invited to don their finest royal attire and join the king of the night in a celebration filled with high-energy performances, captivating costumes, and an atmosphere brimming with laughter and camaraderie.

Table of Contents:

• A Regal Affair: Setting the Scene

• Courtly Performances: The Stars of the Show

• Fashion Fit for Royalty

• A Night to Remember

A Regal Affair: Setting the Scene

As the clock struck eight, the doors to The Barbershop Bar opened to an eager crowd, excited to partake in Hudson Bae’s birthday bash. With the venue packed and the audience dressed to impress, the ambiance was electric, blending the charm of a Renaissance festival with the high energy of a modern drag show.

Hudson, ever the charismatic host, welcomed guests with his signature wit, kicking off the night’s festivities with a blend of comedy, charm, and classic court jester antics. From the moment he took the stage, the energy was contagious, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.

Courtly Performances: The Stars of the Show

Hudson’s Royal Court featured an outstanding lineup of drag royalty. Venom Von Snaps, Luxy Charms, and Cecil Cecropia graced the stage with stunning performances, each bringing their unique flair to the celebration. Though Lua was absent, the show pressed on with enough excitement to keep the crowd thoroughly entertained.

Venom Von Snaps delivered sultry, commanding performances, serving rock-and-roll edge with her leafy green ensemble and fiery red locks. Later in the night, she transformed into a punk princess with fishnet details and a schoolgirl skirt, proving her versatility as a performer. Luxy Charms embodied pure theatricality, first appearing as a devilish rocker in a Kiss crop-top, and later switching to a more refined, black and white aesthetic, all while maintaining her signature clown-inspired look.

Cecil Cecropia was a powerhouse of punk and rebellion, first in an all-black rocker ensemble and later embracing a DIY aesthetic with an oversized sweatshirt, safety pins, and skull-themed accessories. And of course, Hudson Bae himself was a sight to behold, first in a blue jester’s garb complete with a white ruff, then in a striking white ruffled shirt and platinum wig, playfully wielding a “#1 Daddy” coffee mug.

Fashion Fit for Royalty

The night wasn’t just about the performances—it was also a visual spectacle. Themed outfits added an extra layer of excitement, with each performer embodying their own take on royal flair. The audience, too, played their part, arriving in their best regal attire, transforming the venue into a full-blown royal court. Whether clad in crowns, flowing gowns, or medieval-inspired finery, the crowd fully embraced the theme, making the event feel like a grand festival.

A Night to Remember

With a packed house, stellar performances, and a birthday celebration fit for a king, Hudson’s Royal Court proved to be a night of unforgettable revelry. The camaraderie between performers and audience alike made the event feel intimate yet spectacular—a true testament to Windsor’s thriving drag community. As the night came to a close, the cast stayed on set to mingle with guests, ensuring that everyone had the chance to capture memories with their favorite royals.

Long live Hudson Bae and his court—until the next royal gathering!

Review by Kevin Blondin
Photos by Liana Anselmo

A Feast of Fabulosity at Barbershop Bar

SOLD OUT! Juice Boxx, Koko Starr, and Belle Vyra, at The Barbershop Bar on February 4, 2024.

Babes Who Brunch Review by Kevin Blondin

Windsor's Barbershop Bar was the vibrant backdrop for an unforgettable afternoon of glitz, glamour, and gastronomy on Sunday, February 4th, 2024, as Koko Starr Events presented the sold-out extravaganza - Babes Who Brunch starring Juice Boxx. Hosted by the fabulous Koko Starr, this monthly drag brunch event has become a must-attend for drag enthusiasts in the area.

The event kicked off at 12 pm sharp, with the venue transformed into a dazzling display of Valentine's Day spirit. The Barbershop Bar was not only adorned with special menus on every table but also featured eye-catching ads for the event and upcoming shows on its TV screens. It was evident from the start that this was more than just a brunch; it was a feast for the senses.

The star-studded lineup began with Koko Starr herself, taking the stage in a red and white Valentine's Day-themed bodysuit adorned with hearts, and a blonde wig that could make cupid blush. The energy was infectious as Koko delivered a captivating performance to Tate McRae's "Exes."

Canada's Drag Race Season 1 contestant, Juice Boxx, graced the stage next, borrowing a blonde and pink wig from Koko. Dazzling in pink sequins that left little to the imagination, Juice Boxx brought the house down with a sensational rendition of Glee's "Mamma Mia." Interacting with the audience, she even took the performance to new heights, climbing atop the bar and leaving no room for inhibitions.

Amidst the performances, the Barbershop Bar was filled with the tantalizing aroma of brunch, included with the ticket price. The bar staff hustled to serve the hungry crowd as the drag artists, including Juice Boxx, Koko Starr, and the captivating local artist Belle Vyra, danced their way around the room, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Belle Vyra, the showcase artist, made a jaw-dropping entrance with a gothic twist, defying the Valentine's theme. Dressed in a plaid mini skirt, leather, and donning a long blonde wig, Belle Vyra's performance to "Eat Me" was a mesmerizing display of daytime goth - simultaneously eerie and seductive.

The event hit a short pause to allow guests to indulge in their delicious brunches, creating the perfect intermission before Juice Boxx's return with a pink and yellow split wig of her own, performing Taylor Swift's "Love Story." The audience was treated to an intimate moment as Juice Boxx pulled a guest onto the floor for a slow dance, proving that brunch could indeed be the most romantic meal of the day.

The grand finale saw Koko Starr returning to the stage for a lively performance of Meghan Trainor's "No," followed by Juice Boxx wrapping up the show with Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten." The entire room was alive with energy as the drag artists and staff danced around, serving both visually and literally.

Babes Who Brunch proved to be a tantalizing blend of babes, brunch, and breathtaking performances. As the lights dimmed and the curtains closed, it was evident that this monthly spectacular has solidified its place as a staple in Windsor's drag scene. For those craving a delightful fusion of culinary delights and drag artistry, Babes Who Brunch is an experience not to be missed.

Photography and review by Kevin Blondin capturing the essence of babes, brunch, and boundless entertainment.

Juice Boxx returns on March 23, 2024, for Semi Qualified Queens Live with Synthia Kiss at the Sportsmen’s Club, presented by Koko Starr Events.

A Colorful Feast of Queer Delight

Geena Hayze, Koko Starr, and D. Ann Eh! at The Barbershop Bar on January 14, 2024.

Babes Who Brunch Review

This past Sunday, The Barbershop Bar in Windsor, Ontario, transformed into a haven of glitter and glamour as Koko Starr Events presented "Babes Who Brunch" Hosted by the dazzling trio of Koko Starr, Geena Hayze, and D.Ann Eh!, the event promised not only a delectable meal but also a feast for the senses with three rounds of mesmerizing drag performances.

Koko Starr's Dazzling Delight:

Koko's First Number: With an infectious energy, Koko set the stage ablaze with Ariana Grande's "Break Free." Dressed in a magenta and green color block jumpsuit, complete with frilly disco sleeves, Koko served signature glam. The classic Koko look, paired with a beat that could rival anyone's mother, kicked off the afternoon with a bang.

Koko's Second Number: Drenched in sherbet colors, Koko's second act, to Tate McCray's "Greedy," was a visual delight. Sporting hues of yellow, magenta, and orange, she kept the vibe vibrant and on-brand. It was a reminder of those hot summer nights we all yearn for.

Koko's Third Number: Hilary Duff's "Come Clean" ushered in Koko's classic water-pouring spectacle. In a hot pink ensemble with a diamond-edged belt, Koko once again left us eagerly anticipating summer repeats of this crowd-favorite moment.

D.Ann Eh!'s Nostalgic Magic:

D.Ann Eh!'s First Number: D.Ann Eh! kicked off with Lizzo's "About Damn Time," donning a black sequin body-hugging dress and rainbow hair. The performance set a sassy tone for the afternoon.

D.Ann Eh!'s Second Number: Miley Cyrus' "Flowers" brought forth a living, breathing queer version of Mrs. Frizzle. Complete with an education-themed dress and orange hair, D.Ann Eh! took us on a nostalgic ride down memory lane. A visit from a poster version of Bill Nye added a whimsical touch to this delightful performance.

D.Ann Eh!'s Third Number: In a dramatic turn, D.Ann Eh! donned an Elsa-inspired ensemble for "Let It Go" from Frozen. The icy blue gown, snowflake tights, and Elsa wig created a magical winter wonderland, leaving the audience in awe.

Geena Hayze's Elegant Enigma:

Geena's First Number: Geena graced the stage with Patti Lupone's "The Ladies Who Lunch." Adorned in a rose-toned body-hugging minidress and a short blondish wig, Geena exuded elegance and charm.

Geena's Second Number: "Patti Labelle - New Attitude" saw Geena in a black and magenta church lady ensemble. With a fascinating top and accessorized from head to toe, she showcased a regal demeanor, emphasizing her titles and courtly affiliations.

Geena's Third Number: For Donna Summer's "Works Hard for Your Money," Geena channeled Max from "Two Broke Girls" in a waitress outfit. Serving realness with a tray and a nail file, Geena's charisma and humor lit up the room.

The Ambiance and Delightful Fare:

Beyond the dazzling performances, the brunch itself was a culinary delight. Fresh fruit, omelets in phyllo, waffles with strawberries and whipped cream, and mimosas created a symphony of flavors. The Barbershop Bar, with its safe and inclusive atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for this drag spectacle.

In conclusion, "Babes Who Brunch" was not just an event; it was a celebration of queerness, talent, and community. Koko Starr Events, with their impeccable curation, once again proved that drag is not just an art form but a transformative experience that brings people together in joyous celebration. Until the next brunch, Windsor awaits the next chapter of this dazzling saga.

Babes Who Brunch presented by Koko Starr Events

Next Event: Sunday, February 4, 2024, at The Barbershop Bar in Windsor, Ontario.

Hosted by Koko Starr, with special guest Juice Boxx from Canada’s Drag Race season 1. Featuring spotlight performance by Belle Vyra.

Review by Britt Leroux
Edited by Kevin Blondin
Photos by Liana Anselmo